Pat Fong Kushida’s Story of Courage and Growth: Navigating Nonprofit Leadership Without a Map

Faith, Family, and Fortune: The Triad That Drives Entrepreneur Chris Johnson’s Success

In this episode of the Layers of Leadership podcast, host Dr. Michael Marion Jr. interviews entrepreneur Chris Johnson, founder and CEO of Pro Flow Technology. Chris shares his journey from playing basketball and running teen dance clubs at 16, to building multi-million dollar companies and appearing on Shark Tank. He discusses pivoting his recruiting firm into an AI-driven hiring platform, the importance of faith during financial hardships, and surrounding yourself with high-caliber people. Chris also emphasizes intentional family time, daily gratitude practices, and the transformative power of proximity to the right mentors and networks.

Dr. Francisco Rodriguez: Leadership Without the Masks; Embracing Authenticity in Higher Education

In this episode of Layers of Leadership, host Dr. Michael Marion Jr. sits down with Dr. Francisco Rodriguez, retired chancellor of the Los Angeles Community College District. Dr. Rodriguez reflects on his upbringing in San Francisco's Mission District, crediting family, faith, and community as his foundation. He shares his 39-year journey through California's public higher education system, discussing leadership philosophy, authenticity, and his unwavering commitment to equity and underserved communities. The conversation also touches on personal passions, including classic cars and DJing, while offering inspiring advice to aspiring leaders: embrace ambiguity, follow your values, and let your brilliance shine.

Breaking News and Breaking Barriers: Rob Stewart’s Story of Leadership Courage, Career, and Community

In this episode of Layers of Leadership, Dr. Michael Marion Jr. sits down with veteran journalist Rob Stewart, a two-time Emmy Award winner and host of PBS's Rob on the Road. Rob shares his 18-year journalism journey, from humble beginnings in South Carolina to major markets like New York and Philadelphia. He discusses the decline of media integrity, the role of AI, and the power of authentic storytelling. Rob also opens up about growing up gay in the South, finding sobriety in 2013, and how self-acceptance transformed his career. He closes with a powerful message: be of service, listen deeply, and make moments matter.

The Power of Saying "Yes" with Christi Black Davis

In this episode of Layers of Leadership, host Dr. Michael Marion Jr. sits down with mentor and business leader Christi Black Davis. Christi shares her journey from growing up in the San Fernando Valley to becoming a respected marketing and communications consultant in Sacramento. She discusses her strong work ethic, the value of mentorship, and how informational interviews helped launch her career. Christi also reflects on her 13-year PR firm partnership, an acquisition by Ogilvy, and eventually returning to independent consulting. She emphasizes three core values: integrity, curiosity, and tenacity as guiding principles throughout her leadership journey.

The Power of Saying "Yes" with Christi Black Davis

In this episode of Layers of Leadership, host Dr. Michael Marion Jr. sits down with mentor and business leader Christi Black Davis. Christi shares her journey from growing up in the San Fernando Valley to becoming a respected marketing and communications consultant in Sacramento. She discusses her strong work ethic, the value of mentorship, and how informational interviews helped launch her career. Christi also reflects on her 13-year PR firm partnership, an acquisition by Ogilvy, and eventually returning to independent consulting. She emphasizes three core values: integrity, curiosity, and tenacity as guiding principles throughout her leadership journey.